National News

India’s men’s hockey team exit the 2026 World Cup semi-final race after losing 3-5 to Argentina. Two early goals put India on the back foot, while poor passing and missed penalty corners hurt their comeback hopes. Sukhjeet scores twice and Hardik adds a penalty stroke, but Argentina’s five-goal haul seals victory. India now play for seventh or eighth place.

Rahul Gandhi’s political style has taken a more combative turn, with the Congress leader increasingly combining Gen Z outreach, parliamentary interventions and surprise street protests. From Bharat Jodo and Chhatron Ki Goonj to student protests and dharnas, the story looks at how Rahul is trying to stay with issues longer, while also navigating criticism.

Infosys reported a 12% year-on-year rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 7,769 crore for the April-June quarter last month, even as it reduced its revenue growth guidance for the full year.

The recently concluded BWF World Championships in New Delhi highlighted the complex task of scheduling elite badminton, as injuries, television demands and player recovery constantly reshaped the order of play. While Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly were rushed to court in an eventual win, France's Toma Junior Popov questioned uneven recovery time, exposing the delicate balance tournament referees must strike.

Kaziah Liz Mejo, a 19-year-old law student and model from Kerala, has won the Miss Universe India 2026 crown in Jaipur. The Mavelikkara native, who grew up in Abu Dhabi, has a strong background in academics, classical dance, music and acting. She will represent India at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico in November.

In 1998, about 12,000 metric tonnes of orange peels and pulp were spread over a degraded pasture in Costa Rica as part of an unusual forest restoration experiment. Sixteen years later, researchers found that the site had developed into a dense forest, with richer soil, greater tree diversity and a 176% increase in aboveground biomass.

Heavy rain in Gurgaon caused school buses and vans to become stuck. Many children remained inside their vehicles for hours due to severe waterlogging. Parents experienced significant anxiety as they could not reach their stranded children. Some children arrived home wet and cold after prolonged delays. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of school transport during intense rainfall.

The United States faces a critical precision weapon shortage. This deficit impacts its ability to deter Chinese aggression in the Pacific. Current global conflicts have depleted American military stockpiles significantly. The US is now accelerating production and adopting new strategies. This aims to counter China's growing military capabilities effectively.

Indian regulators are increasing scrutiny of alcoholic beverage manufacturers. The FSSAI is investigating alleged violations involving flavor additives and age claims. This action focuses on flavors used to mimic natural spirit characteristics. Consumers are urged to pay closer attention to product labels and disclosures. The FSSAI's move highlights growing concerns about product authenticity and transparency.

Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has entered its fifth year. The conflict has devolved into trench warfare, resembling the First World War. Both sides face immense human and financial costs in this attritional struggle. Ukraine's adaptability and Western support sustain its defenses against Russian advances. This prolonged war tests endurance and reshapes Europe's security order.

Perplexity, the AI search startup led by Aravind Srinivas that once made an unsolicited $34.5 billion bid for Google's Chrome browser, is now in talks with Nvidia for funding. The Information reports the round would value Perplexity above $30 billion, up more than 50 percent from its last valuation, as annualised revenue climbs past $750 million on the back of its Perplexity Computer agent.

Heavy rains lashed Delhi-NCR on Monday, causing significant waterlogging and traffic congestion. Authorities in Gurgaon issued a work-from-home advisory for August 25 due to the downpour. Several key roads and underpasses in Delhi also experienced severe water accumulation. Flight operations were disrupted, with fifteen Delhi-bound flights being diverted. Civic teams were deployed to manage the situation and clear waterlogged areas.

Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi's role in strengthening bilateral ties. He noted that trade turnover between Russia and India has significantly increased this year. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar conveyed good wishes and discussed economic cooperation details. Both leaders anticipate future meetings at upcoming international summits. The India-Russia partnership demonstrates resilience and adaptability amidst global complexities.